The Rise And Fall Of Little Voice (Arkle Theatre Company)

‘The Rise and Fall of Little Voice’ is a tragic musical, but one with as much comic relief as pain and that can sometimes feel jarring. However, this production manages to combine the two thanks to subtle performances from the cast, who work hard in a room that doesn’t especially lend itself to staging theatre. Importantly, Elaine Graham gives a strong performance as the lead, Little Voice; it’s a difficult role, the protagonist alternately terrified then confident, and requiring pitch perfect singing impersonation skills, and Graham not only manages this but makes the switches feel organic and believable. While it’s not one of the big musicals, it can be very easy to get this show wrong, and so, seeing a production as accomplished as this is a relief.